The role of physicians in herbal medicine; knowledge, attitudes, and practices: A cross-sectional.

BACKGROUND

Herbal medicine, a key component of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), is widely used globally. However, healthcare professionals often lack sufficient knowledge and practical skills in this area, highlighting the need for improved education and evidence-based guidelines. This study aimed to assess physicians' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding herbal medicine.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted at Kashan University of Medical Sciences in 2024. A total of 146 physicians, randomly selected from various educational levels, participated. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire assessing KAP related to herbal medicine. Statistical analysis was performed using non-parametric tests in SPSS software SPSS software (version 27.0; IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA), with a significance level of P < 0.05.

RESULTS

The mean ± SD age of participants was 31.06 ± 8.58 years. Knowledge scores were low (mean: 9.37 ± 5.86), while attitude scores were moderately high (mean: 26.71 ± 4.91), and practice scores were limited (mean: 5.42 ± 4.37). KAP scores were all significantly associated with age (P < 0.001), and physicians who prescribed herbal medicine had significantly higher knowledge (P < 0.001), attitude (P < 0.001), and practice scores (P < 0.001) compared to non-prescribers. Multivariate regression confirmed age and prescribing behavior as independent predictors of higher KAP scores, while gender and job level were not significant contributors.

CONCLUSION

Physicians demonstrated positive attitudes but limited knowledge and practice regarding herbal medicine. These findings emphasize the need to integrate CAM education into medical training and develop evidence-based guidelines to enhance physicians' competence in prescribing herbal medicine.